Understanding How Cholera Bacteria Communicate to Cause Illness
Signaling Mechanisms in Vibrio Cholerae Parallel Quorum Sensing Pathways
This work helps us learn how the bacteria that cause cholera talk to each other to make people sick.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11035131 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Cholera is a serious illness caused by bacteria called Vibrio cholerae. These bacteria use a special communication system, called quorum sensing, to coordinate their actions, like producing toxins and forming protective layers. This project aims to uncover the specific signals and pathways these bacteria use to communicate. By understanding how they 'talk' to each other, we hope to find new ways to stop them from causing disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational laboratory work does not involve direct patient participation, but future treatments developed from this knowledge would benefit individuals affected by cholera.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive immediate direct benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cholera by disrupting the bacteria's ability to communicate and cause infection.
How similar studies have performed: Quorum sensing is a well-established field, and other studies have shown that disrupting bacterial communication can be a promising approach for fighting infections.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Tufts University Boston — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ng, Wai-Leung — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Ng, Wai-Leung
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.